United Continental Holdings (UAL) pilots have agreed to a new four-year contract that covers...

United Continental Holdings (UAL) pilots have agreed to a new four-year contract that covers United Airlines and Continental pilots following the companies' merger in 2010. The deal includes hefty pay rises and lump-sum payments in exchange for allowing the carrier to increase efficiency such as by using regional partners to fly more 76-seat jets, which remain profitable even when fuel prices are high.

Expect a lawsuit against ALPA and UAL for a failure to represent a small group of 1400 furloughed United pilots. The new contract would make furloughed Continental pilots whole with credit for time on furlough; however, it puts a limit on the furloughed United pilots. Most of the furloughed United pilots were hired 1999-2001, with many furloughed twice since 2001. The Continental pilots were generally hired 1n 22007.